This week, the Springboks celebrated two birthdays amidst their busy rugby calendar. On Monday, 28 October, Cheslin Kolbe turned 31, followed by teammate Eben Etzebeth’s 33rd birthday on Tuesday, 29 October. Their families and fellow Springboks shared heartfelt tributes, showing the strength of the Bok family both on and off the field.
Cheslin Kolbe’s 31st birthday tribute from Layla
Layla Kolbe, Cheslin’s wife, marked his 31st birthday with a sweet Instagram post, expressing her deep love and admiration for him. “Happy Birthday to my favourite rugby player, Cheslin Kolbe!” she wrote, alongside heartfelt wishes for his continued blessings. “Ons is lief vir jou!” she added.
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Layla and Cheslin, who married in 2018, have built a beautiful life together with their three children, and her words reflected both pride and support for Cheslin as he continues his rugby journey.
Teammate and Springboks captain Siya Kolisi also honoured Cheslin’s big day, sharing a group photo with Cheslin and Eben, playfully captioned “31 ❤️ @cheslinkolbe happy birthday roompa.”
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Anlia Etzebeth’s touching birthday message for Eben
Eben Etzebeth’s birthday brought more love and celebration on Tuesday. His wife, actress Anlia Etzebeth, posted a deeply personal message, missing him as he continues his duties in the UK with the Springboks. “Happy Birthday husband, my lover, twin flame, ride or die, best friend, and my favourite person!” she wrote, alongside warm wishes for his happiness and success. She expressed that, although separated by distance, she and their baby girl were celebrating with him “in heart and spirit.”
Eben responded warmly, thanking his “amazing wife” and sending her love from afar. The couple, who married in February 2023, has been inseparable since meeting in 2021, and this birthday message reflected the strength of their bond even when miles apart.
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Kolisi and Kolbe’s shoutout to “brother” Eben
Eben’s 33rd birthday also drew tributes from his Springbok “brothers.” Siya Kolisi, who has shared many moments with Eben both on and off the field, called him “my brother” in his birthday message, writing, “Here’s to more memories.” Cheslin Kolbe, fresh off celebrating his own birthday, playfully referred to Eben as “Elizabethi,” sharing his love and affection for his longtime friend and teammate.
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Featured Image: Instagram | @layla_kolbe & @anliastar
